Whitin Mill: A Community Magnet

Whitin Mill is the story of how an out-of-work mill became an inclusive community treasure for whole region to enjoy. We sincerely hope that as you read and learn more about the renovation that has taken place at the Whitin Mill you will gain a better understanding of just what has been done here and the importance of its role in both history and the present.

The intent of the Whitin Mill community is to create a cultural destination for the region, to develop a focal point of activities for tourists, to grant access to cultural opportunities for residents of surrounding rural towns, to assist in the rejuvenation of the local economy, and to encourage job formation.

Alternatives' new model, Redefining Community, uses the restored Whitin Mill as an anchor to bring people of all abilities together to break down long-standing attitudinal barriers and build new relationships. Inclusive activities, as opposed to isolating ones, provide new opportunities for valued roles, which in turn, will help people with disabilities to develop a new life purpose. This model is unprecedented, resulting in numerous prominent national and international associations requesting presentations. Delegations from several European countries have visited the Whitin Mill to learn about this model.

The three most significant measures of success for people with disabilities are to have real jobs, real homes and real relationships. They need a supportive, engaged community that provides opportunities to form meaningful relationships and develop valued roles. Alternatives belief is that hosting and sponsoring inclusive community-building activities at the Whitin Mill will bring together the public and people with disabilities. The Whitin Mill in turn serves as a crossroads where people of all abilities can form friendships around common interests and activities.

The redevelopment of the Whitin mill has given the Blackstone Valley region a community magnet that draws people from far and wide because of its diverse appeal. Visitors come to enjoy the airy 5,000-square-foot Community Plaza on the banks of the Mumford River where concerts and festivals can be enjoyed, community theater productions in the Singh Performance Center, the artisans' shops, the Aldrich Heritage Art Gallery, and the ambiance of a beautiful historic structure lovingly renovated. People come to explore our industrial past and to celebrate the modern marvels of a Green future. The Whitin Mill truly is the transformation of real estate capital into social capital.